But once more I give you both the opportunity to draw back if you like." "Thank you, sir," replied West; "but if you will trust us we will take the despatch." "Very well," said the Commandant, turning very stern and business-like.
"Here is the despatch.

It is a very small packet, and I leave it to your own ingenuity to dispose of it where it cannot be found if you have the bad luck to be captured.

It must be sewn up in your pockets, or fitted into your hats, or hidden in some way or other.

I leave it to you, only telling you to destroy it sooner than it should fall into the enemy's hands." "We'll consult together, sir, and decide what to do," replied West, looking frankly in the officer's eyes; "but--I have heard of such a thing being done, sir--" "What do you mean ?" said the Commandant sternly.
"That to ensure a despatch not falling into the enemy's hands the bearer learned its contents carefully and then burned it." "Hah! Yes.

That would make it safe," cried the officer, with a satisfied look.